These paper stars make such fun decorations for a birthday party, the 4th of July, or even Christmas. Attach them to a present, tape twine or ribbon to the back of the stars to hang them, or use a single hole punch and turn them into a garland!
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What type of paper to use to make a paper star?
There are a lot of different types of paper that work well for making a paper star. You can use printer paper, scrapbook paper, origami paper, magazine pages, newsprint, sheet music, or wrapping paper. Try using square pieces of paper, or cut the paper you have into a square. The heaviest paper we recommend is 24 lb coloured printer paper to make these stars. Thicker paper like card stock will not work. The paper doesn’t fold crisply enough, and it would be impossible to cut through at the end.
How to make a paper star with different sizes of paper?
As long as your paper is square, you can make a paper star in all different sizes! We started off with squares that were 2-1/2 inches, 5-1/2 inches, and 8-1/2 inches in size.
How do you cut a paper star?
You always want to start cutting at the bottom left point, but the angle of the diagonal cut will determine the thickness of the star’s arms. If you cut up higher you’ll get thinner arms, whereas cutting down lower to the right will create broader arms. You can also take it a step further and cut patterns inside the star, like you do with a paper snowflake.
Are these paper stars origami?
Technically these paper stars are kirigami, not origami. Modern origami practices generally discourage the use of cutting or gluing. In contrast, kirigami is a variation of origami that includes cutting as well as folding!
It’s so easy to learn how to make a paper star, with no glue or special tools required. These folded paper stars are really fun to make, and they turn out beautifully every time!
Here’s even more paper craft ideas:
How to Make a Ninja Star
Paper Christmas Tree
Paper Heart
Folded Paper Bracelets
Our book Low-Mess Crafts for Kids is loaded with 72 fun and simple craft ideas for kids! The projects are fun, easy and most importantly low-mess, so the clean up is simple!